Product Review: Casio CDP-S110 – Portable Piano

The keyboard of this electric piano is a surprise – the predecessor model CDP-S100 already received top ratings as the best keyboard in this price range. This also made the compact portable piano an insider tip as a controller for the MIDI studio. But first and foremost – and this also applies to the new model – the Casio CDP-S110 is an affordable electric piano for beginners.

“It doesn’t have to be the best model right away” – an argument heard again and again, While there is some truth to it, beginners should not make the mistake of buying the cheapest no-name piano. After all, learning to play an instrument is all about fun and motivation.

Especially important: good playability – and that is at the top of the list with the Casio CDP-S110. And there is also the possibility to use external devices connected via USB to improve the sound – but one step at a time.

The new CDP series

Casio offers three new models in the “Slim Body” series: Besides the CDP-S110, there is also the CDP-S160, which is quite similar to the former, but has a few substantial additions. There is also the CDP-S360, an electric piano with arranger function which replaces the previous model CDP-S350.

You can learn more about the differences in the section “… in comparison” below. All models share the same compact and lightweight plastic casing, which is available in black, white or red. The slim body pianos are therefore ideal for those who have little or actually no space for a digital piano. The Casio CDP-S110 is so light and handy with a weight of approx. 10 kg that it can quickly be stowed away in the closet if more space is needed.

Hammer action with 88 keys

Despite the compact dimensions, you don’t have to do without the most important thing when learning to or playing the piano: A touch-sensitive keyboard with real piano keys and hammer action, here called Scaled Hammer Action II. On all CDP models, the keys have an artificial Ebony/Ivory surface that creates a really nice playing feel. Not too slippery, not too dull – in the price range around 400 euro an absolute winner!

At the same time, the keys have a pleasant counterweight and thus are also a tip for advanced players who are looking for a handy stage piano for small gigs – more about that here.

Sound and sound generation

In this regard, the CDP-S110 is really on beginner level, already indicated by the 64-note polyhony. But at least the piano sound you get is reasonable, allowing you to play dynamically enough for learning and practicing, and sounding quite balanced in itself. The other sounds, such as electric pianos, strings, etc., are a nice addition that brings playing fun combined with the layer function.

You cannot expect from the speaker sound – certainly due to the compact design of the case. But in this respect, the Casio CDP-S110 is basically no different from any other instrument in this category and price range.

If you want more, you’ll clearly have to spend a little bit more. Or you can expand your radius of action to external devices. If you own an iPad or iPhone, you can get piano apps for little money, which are a big step forward in terms of sound quality.

Take a look at our video test to see how well the keyboard of the CDP-S110 works with the apps Pure Piano and Korg Module Pro.

Casio CDP-S110 & Apps

With the exception of the CDP-S360, all instruments of the CDP series are equipped with only a few control functions. As usual in this price range, the keyboard is used as a control element – also easily recognizable if you take a look at the functions printed on it.

The handling becomes much more comfortable with the free app “Casio Music Space”. It is available for iOS and Android devices and connects to the electric piano via USB. Additionally, an Apple Camera Connection Kit or an OTG adapter for Android devices is required to use this application. The audio input on the Casio CDP-S110 in combination with a mini-jack cable can then be used to transfer the audio signal from the smartphone or tablet to the playback system of the electric piano.

Conclusion: Compact, inexpensive, good

An important plus point is the high-quality hammer action keyboard, which is unparalleled in this price range in terms of playability and Ebony/Ivory feel. The spartan equipment of controls is again quite typical for this instrument category, but Casio offers a practical and free upgrade with the piano app “Chordana Play for Piano”, which brings significantly more operating comfort.

Like its predecessor, the CDP-S110 scores well as a beginner’s piano. In addition, the keyboard also makes the compact piano interesting for anyone looking for an affordable piano master keyboard for their MIDI studio. Keep in mind: The CDP-S110 only comes with a simple foot switch – you should therefore plan on getting a decent sustain pedal right away.

Casio CDP-S110 – Overview

Available since: 02.2022
Keyboard: 88 keys, Smart Scaled Hammer Action II, 2 sensor system
Polyphony: 64 voices
Includes: Power supply, music stand, foot switch
Piano-App: Casio Music Space (available for iOS and Android free of charge)
Manufacturer/Distributor: Casio

Casio CDP-S110 in comparison

CDP-S110 vs. CDP-S160: The CDP-S110 is the smallest of all models. A matching stand (Casio CS-46 P ) is optional, while it is already included with its bigger brother, the CDP-S160. A triple pedal unit is also included here, which is not available for the CDP-S110 due to the lack of a connection socket. With the CDP-S110 you should plan on getting a sustain pedal right away (optionally available). Otherwise, the equipment of the CDP-S110 and CDP-S160 is identical.

CDP-S110 vs. CDP-360: The CDP-S360 offers a significantly more extensive range of functions. As an electric piano with arranger function, it comes with many more sounds, an automatic accompaniment function with styles of different genres as well as a correspondingly higher polyphony with 128 voices and a more elaborate control panel with LC display.